Val Vezzeno Public Assistance Walk

A solidarity walk in the Piacenza Apennines

The Val Vezzeno Public Assistance Walk is a non-competitive walking race that every spring attracts hundreds of participants to the hills of Gropparello, a small municipality in the province of Piacenza, in Emilia-Romagna. The event, organized by the Val Vezzeno Public Assistance (Anpas association) in collaboration with CSI Piacenza and local volunteers, combines the sporting spirit of walking with fundraising for an association that has provided assistance and emergency services to the valley for almost forty years.

Four routes through villages, castles, and woods

The heart of the event lies in its four routes, approximately 2, 4, 9, and 15 kilometers long, designed for every fitness level: from families with children to more experienced walkers. The paths, cleaned and marked by volunteers, cross some of the most picturesque places in Val Vezzeno and Val Chero: hills and woods, ancient churches, the Fairy Tale Village, the panoramic Big Bench, the Old Church, and the badlands of the Piacenza Park, an area of great geological and natural value.

An event for the community

More than just a race, the event is a moment of community: along the route, there are refreshment points with typical Piacenza cured meats and wines, and musical entertainment to accompany the walkers. Participation extends far beyond the municipal borders, with registered participants coming from Lombardy, Liguria, Piedmont, and Emilia-Romagna. Upon return, the Ettore Rosso Sports Field becomes the venue for a convivial lunch prepared by volunteers, the highlight of a day dedicated to togetherness.

Walk for a good cause

All proceeds from the walk support the activities of the Val Vezzeno Public Assistance: in recent editions, funds have been allocated to the association's new headquarters and the renewal of its vehicle fleet, culminating in the arrival of a new ambulance. Participating means combining the pleasure of a walk in the nature of the Piacenza Apennines with concrete support for a vital resource for the health and safety of the valley.